Exercise may Not be Able to Fight COVID-Stress

Exercise can reduce anxiety and stress, but a new study finds that it may not be enough for the levels caused by COVID-19. The findings of the study are published in the journal PLOS ONE.

People who reported raising their physical activity after the start of COVID-19 stay-at-home orders reported greater stress and anxiety levels than those whose activity levels stayed the same, reports a twin study led by the researchers at Washington State University.

‘COVID-19 pandemic could greatly impact mental health. Hence, Early identification and treatment are essential to avoid long-term mental health consequences. ’

More than 900 pairs of identical and same-sex fraternal twins were analyzed in the study. Those who reported decreased physical activity after the stay-at-home orders had a perceived higher level of stress and anxiety, which was expected. But surprisingly, may participants who increased their physical activity felt the same way.

In addition, the study found that anxiety levels were higher among older people and women.

Physical distancing and other COVID-19 pandemic reduction strategies may have unintended consequences on a number of health behaviors and health outcomes, concluded the study.

Source: Medindia